The widespread fortification of calcium in the food supply combined with the increased popularity of calcium supplements may lead to a phosphorus shortage, suggests a new study in the June issue of the Journal of the American College of Nutrition.
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Increasing calcium intake without a corresponding increase in phosphorus intake decreases the amount of phosphorus absorbed, which could be detrimental to bones. To maximize bone density, the study suggests a combination of calcium and phosphorus is preferable.
The researchers studied the impact of calcium on phosphorus absorption among nearly 300 men and women. For those who got their calcium primarily from the most popular form of supplements, which do not contain phosphorus, the total intake of calcium compared to phosphorus was too high, and phosphorus absorption suffered. Too little phosphorus, especially in older adults, may impeed the body’s ability to repair osteoporosis.
“Our study found that increasing the amount of calcium consumed without increasing phosphorus intake will lower phosphorus absorption,” said lead author Robert P. Heaney, MD, of Creighton University in Omaha. “Unless your intake of phosphorus is generous, the ratio of calcium to phosphorus is very important to ensure that you get enough of both minerals, and this is particularly critical for older adults receiving treatment for osteoporosis.”
Phosphorus is a major component of bones and a growing number of studies have suggested the importance of this mineral in maintaining bone density and preventing osteoporosis. While some nutritionists have felt there may be an excess of phosphorus in the food supply, this study concludes that the opposite may be true.
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By GlobalDataGovernment food consumption surveys indicate that only 25% of women get the phosphorus they need. Phosphorus intake drops even further as women age. With the current trend of calcium fortification and the growing reliance of calcium supplements, the amount of phosphorus actually absorbed will be significantly decreased, which could lead to a phosphorus deficiency, Heaney warns. While some calcium supplements and fortified foods contain phosphorus, the majority on the market do not.
The National Fluid Milk Processor Promotion Board said that with this in mind, milk consumption should be encouraged because it is rich in both calcium and phosphorus.
Heaney said: “When it comes to building bones, there are some real benefits of food over pills.
“Milk provides the unique combination of both calcium and phosphorus, along with protein, vitamin D and other nutrients that are essential for keeping bones strong. Moreover, calcium and phosphorus are in an ideal proportion so there’s not the concern of upsetting the balance of the calcium to phosphorus ratio, which can happen if you rely solely on certain supplements or fortified foods for your calcium.”
